Arkansas Razorbacks vs Kansas Jayhawks Prediction – 3/20/2025

The NCAA Tournament's first round brings an exciting clash between the 10th-seeded Arkansas Razorbacks and the 7th-seeded Kansas Jayhawks. Scheduled for March 20, 2025, at 7:10 pm, this game at Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island, promises to be a compelling contest for basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike.

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Kansas Jayhawks Game Preview

The Arkansas Razorbacks enter the tournament with a 20-13 record, having won five of their last seven games. Under the guidance of first-year head coach John Calipari, the Razorbacks have demonstrated resilience, particularly in the latter part of the season. However, they face a significant setback with the absence of their leading scorer, forward Adou Thiero, who remains sidelined due to a knee injury sustained on February 22. Thiero has been instrumental for Arkansas, averaging 15.6 points and 6.0 rebounds over 26 starts. In his absence, Trevon Brazile has stepped up, averaging 10.3 points and 9.8 rebounds as a starter. Additionally, freshman point guard Boogie Fland is set to return after being sidelined since January 18 with a thumb injury.

On the other side, the Kansas Jayhawks, with a 21-12 record, have had a season marked by inconsistency. Despite entering the season with high expectations, they finished sixth in the Big 12. The Jayhawks are led by standout center Hunter Dickinson, who averages 17.6 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. Guard Zeke Mayo also contributes significantly, adding 14.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. Kansas boasts a strong defense, ranking 19th among Division I teams for opponent three-point percentage this season (30.1%).

Betting Insights

For those interested in wagering on this matchup, current betting lines favor Kansas. The Jayhawks are listed as 5.5-point favorites, with an over/under set at 145.5 points. Key betting trends to consider include:

• Kansas has won 18 of its last 19 Thursday games.
• Arkansas has lost three of its last four games against Big 12 Conference opponents.
• Seven of Kansas' last eight games at neutral venues have produced a total of 146 or more points.
• Six of Arkansas' last seven night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at neutral venues have produced a total of 146 or more points.

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Kansas Jayhawks Prediction

Analyzing the current form and roster situations of both teams, Kansas appears to have the upper hand. The absence of Adou Thiero significantly impacts Arkansas' offensive capabilities, placing additional pressure on players like Trevon Brazile and the returning Boogie Fland. While Fland's return is a positive development, his recent absence may affect his performance.

Kansas, despite their season's ups and downs, possesses a balanced attack and a formidable defense. Hunter Dickinson's presence in the paint provides a substantial advantage, and the team's overall defensive metrics suggest they can effectively contain Arkansas' offense.

Considering these factors, the prediction leans towards Kansas covering the spread. The Jayhawks' depth, combined with Arkansas' injury concerns, positions them favorably in this matchup. Bettors might also consider the over on the total points, given both teams' recent trends in high-scoring games at neutral venues.

In conclusion, expect Kansas to leverage their strengths and secure a victory, advancing to the next round of the tournament.